Chicago, IL – A deadly shooting erupted at the intersection of Central Avenue and Fulton Street on Tuesday night, leaving 22-year-old Kemoni Pitchford dead after sustaining 18 gunshot wounds. A second victim, a 26-year-old man, survived the attack and is currently receiving medical treatment after arriving at the hospital in a private vehicle.

The Chicago Police Department (CPD) responded to multiple 911 calls reporting gunfire in the area just after 9:30 p.m. Upon arrival, officers discovered Pitchford unresponsive on the pavement, suffering from multiple gunshot wounds to his torso and extremities. Paramedics attempted life-saving measures, but he was pronounced dead at the scene.

The second victim, whose identity has not yet been disclosed, managed to flee the scene and later sought medical attention at a nearby hospital. Authorities have not released details regarding the severity of his injuries but confirmed that he is in stable condition.

Eyewitness Accounts and Scene Description

Local residents described the sound of rapid gunfire echoing through the streets, prompting people to take cover inside their homes. “It sounded like fireworks at first, but then I realized it was gunshots—way too many to count,” said Mark Hughes, a nearby resident. “When I looked outside, I saw a man on the ground, and another person ran off before police arrived.”

According to surveillance footage from a nearby business, a dark-colored sedan was seen speeding away from the scene immediately after the gunfire. CPD detectives are reviewing the footage as they work to identify suspects and determine a motive.

Investigation and Possible Motives

Preliminary investigations suggest that the shooting may have been targeted, though officials have not confirmed if it was gang-related or a result of a personal dispute. Pitchford, according to public records, had previous encounters with law enforcement but had recently been working to turn his life around. Friends and family members described him as a charismatic and kind-hearted young man who was focused on building a better future.

“This is a senseless tragedy,” said Pitchford’s cousin, Latoya Henderson. “Kemoni was trying to do better. He didn’t deserve this.”

The surviving victim has yet to provide a full statement to police, but investigators believe his testimony will be crucial in piecing together what led to the shooting.

Community Reactions and Calls for Justice

The fatal shooting has sparked outrage among community members and activists, who are calling for increased police presence and better violence prevention programs. “We’re tired of losing our young men to gun violence,” said Pastor Raymond Davis, a community leader in the Austin neighborhood. “This city needs more resources for at-risk youth and tougher measures to get illegal guns off the streets.”

Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson expressed his condolences to the victims’ families and assured the public that law enforcement is prioritizing the case. “Gun violence continues to plague our neighborhoods, and we must work together to bring those responsible to justice,” Johnson said in a statement.

Surge in Gun Violence in Chicago

This shooting is part of an alarming rise in gun violence across Chicago, particularly in the West Side neighborhoods. CPD reports indicate that shootings have increased by 12% compared to the same time last year, with many incidents linked to gang activity and retaliatory attacks. Law enforcement officials are urging witnesses to come forward and provide any relevant information that could lead to arrests.

Call for Witnesses and Law Enforcement Efforts

CPD is asking anyone with information about the shooting to contact Area Four Detectives or submit an anonymous tip through Chicago’s Crime Stoppers hotline. Officers are also increasing patrols in the area to prevent potential retaliatory violence.

As the investigation unfolds, Pitchford’s family is left to mourn the tragic loss of a young life cut short. His mother, Theresa Pitchford, tearfully addressed reporters, pleading for justice. “My son didn’t deserve this. If anyone knows anything, please come forward.”

This remains a developing story, and authorities are expected to release further details as the investigation progresses.